Collins signs for Reds

The club are delighted to announce the signing of striker James Collins on a three-year deal after his contract was cancelled by mutual consent by League One Shrewsbury Town earlier today.

The 25-year-old has won promotion from England's fourth tier three times in his career so far - twice with Shrewsbury Town and once with Northampton Town as champions of the division last season.

The forward began his career at Aston Villa, but moved from the Midlands club to Shrewsbury in 2011. In his first full season he scored 16 goals in 47 appearances in all competitions as the side were promoted.

He opted to join Swindon Town at the end of the campaign, before moving to Hibernian in 2013.

Collins returned to Shrewsbury Town following the Scottish side's relegation from the top flight.

He captained the Shrews last season before moving to eventual division champions Northampton Town on loan where he finished on 14 goals in all competitions last season. During his career, James has scored 76 goals in 287 league and cup games including 222 starts.

Head Coach Dermot Drummy said: "We're absolutely thrilled we've been able to bring James to the football club.

"He wants a new challenge and he comes with a very good goalscoring record in League 2. We look forward to working with him, making him a better player and to him being part of what we're trying to achieve long-term here at the club."

James will wear the No.19 shirt.

Check back soon for more reaction from James Collins and Dermot Drummy later today.